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It pays to be choosy Nakhon Phanom is famous for its Phra That stupas that dot this northeast province. They house relics of Buddha and are held in high esteem. Visiting them, it is advisable to observe these places of worship through the eyes of local people and try to understand how they wield influence and shape their destiny. According to Denchai Traiyatha, a cultural expert, although the stupas are scattered over several districts, there is an unifying theme that binds them. He explained that stupas in the province could be categorised into the major Phra That Phanom and minor Phra Thats. The major stupa has a sphere of influence that extends to six smaller satellite stupas, each befitting people born on a particularly day of the week. And there is a guardian angel for every day of the week. As such, the Phra Thats of Nakhon Phanom give tourists the liberty to choose (to visit) from a set of stupas depending on their day of birth and zodiac sign under which they were born. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is promoting the province as a pilgrimage destination. Here is a brief list of the stupas for visitors heading that way: - The 7th century Phra That Phanom is revered by Thais and Laotians alike. It attracts those born on Sunday and in the Year of the Monkey. Its guardian angel is sun god. - Phra That Renu in Renu Nakhon District is meant for those born on Monday. It faces east in the direction of moon god. - Phra That Sikhun in Na Kae District attracts those born on Tuesday. In ancient times the district was scene of pitched battles between Lanxang and Khmer kingdoms. Mars is its guardian angel and, therefore, harbinger of strength and fighting qualities. - Phra That Mahachai in Pla Pak District attracts people born on Wednesday. Its guardian angel is god of compromise. People born on this day make good businessmen. - Phra That Prasith in Na Wha District is protected by a hermit and is the choice of those born on Thursday. It houses relics of Buddha and his seven disciples, old amulets and other items. Those born on this day are successful in their chosen profession. - Phra That Tha Uthane is north of Phra That Phanom in Tha Uthane District. It is meant for people born on Friday whose attributes are skill and creativity and they are fiercely independent people. - Phra That Nakhon is located in Wat Mahathat, Muang District, and attracts people born on Saturday. The main quality of people born this day is the ability to lead. Isan people believe visiting these stupas is spiritually uplifting and a ticket to long life. |